Laundry treatment control method, apparatus, device, and storage medium

Abstract

The application provides a clothes treatment control method, device, equipment and storage medium. The method comprises the following steps: receiving an opening instruction of a dry cleaning program, controlling a barrel to rotate at a preset rotating speed; controlling a steam device to inject steam into the barrel; controlling a solution feeding device to feed a dry cleaning solvent into the barrel; controlling the temperature in the barrel to be maintained within a preset temperature range; determining whether the opening time length of the solution feeding device or the steam device reaches a first preset time length, and controlling the solution feeding device and the steam device to be closed; and introducing hot air into the barrel. The steam is used to wet the load, which helps the dry cleaning solvent to penetrate into the fiber, dissolve and emulsify the stains, and the stains are dissolved in the dry cleaning solvent or the steam. The steam and the dry cleaning solvent are volatilized by the hot air to take the stains away from the load, the stains are removed in a trace water environment, the clothes do not need to be dried, and the decontamination cost is reduced.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of electrical equipment technology, and specifically relates to a control method, device, equipment and storage medium for clothing processing. Background Technology

[0002] In daily life, cleaning large items of clothing and garments made of special materials can be quite troublesome. For example, clothing made of cashmere, down, wool, and silk cannot be washed with water and must be taken to a dry cleaner. However, dry cleaning is expensive and time-consuming.

[0003] For these types of clothes that cannot be washed with water, the clothing processing equipment such as washing machines, washer-dryer combos, and dryers currently only offer simple care using traditional air-wash programs. These programs can only perform wrinkle removal and odor removal, but cannot remove stains. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This application proposes a control method, apparatus, equipment, and storage medium for garment cleaning. The steam generator produces steam, enabling better control of humidity within the drum. Steam wetting of the garment helps the dry cleaning solvent penetrate the fibers, dissolving and emulsifying stains. The drum rotates at a preset speed, placing the garment in a scattering state, increasing the contact area between the dry cleaning solvent and the garment. The temperature within the drum is maintained within a preset range, enhancing the cleaning effect of the dry cleaning solvent. The stains dissolve in the dry cleaning solvent or steam, forming a liquid crystal. Hot air is introduced into the drum, causing the steam and dry cleaning solvent to evaporate, carrying away the stains dissolved in the solvent or steam from the garment, achieving stain removal in a minimal water environment. This eliminates the need to send fabrics to a dry cleaner, and the garments can be worn immediately after washing without drying, reducing the financial and time costs of garment cleaning.

[0005] The first aspect of this application provides a method for controlling clothing processing, including:

[0006] Receives the start command for the dry cleaning program and controls the drum to rotate at a preset speed;

[0007] The steam control device injects steam into the barrel, and the solution dispensing device dispenses dry cleaning solvent into the barrel;

[0008] The temperature inside the barrel is controlled to remain within a preset temperature range;

[0009] Once the operating time of the solution dispensing device or the steam device reaches a first preset time, the solution dispensing device and the steam device are controlled to shut down.

[0010] Hot air is introduced into the barrel.

[0011] In some embodiments of this application, maintaining the temperature in the tank within a preset temperature range includes:

[0012] The current temperature inside the barrel is detected by a temperature sensor;

[0013] If the current temperature is determined to be lower than the lower limit of a preset temperature range, the heating device in the drying tunnel is activated to heat the steam passing through the drying tunnel; or,

[0014] If the current temperature is determined to be greater than the upper limit of the preset temperature range, the heating device in the drying tunnel is controlled to shut down.

[0015] In some embodiments of this application, before hot air is introduced into the barrel, the following steps are also included:

[0016] Stop controlling the temperature in the tank to remain within the preset temperature range.

[0017] In some embodiments of this application, the preset rotation speed is less than the critical rotation speed, wherein the critical rotation speed is the minimum rotation speed at which the clothes inside the tub can adhere to the tub wall and rotate with the tub.

[0018] In some embodiments of this application, the preset rotation speed range includes 40 rpm to 70 rpm, and the preset temperature range includes 50°C to 70°C.

[0019] In some embodiments of this application, the steam control device injects steam into the barrel, including:

[0020] The steam generator is turned on, and the steam generated by the steam generator is blown into the barrel by the fan in the drying tunnel; and / or,

[0021] The water inlet valve is opened to fill the tank with water to a preset water level, which is higher than the heating device at the bottom of the tank. The heating device at the bottom is then turned on to evaporate the water in the tank and generate steam.

[0022] In some embodiments of this application, the steam control device injects steam into the barrel, including:

[0023] The steam generator and the heating device at the bottom of the barrel are turned on alternately to inject steam into the barrel.

[0024] In some embodiments of this application, the controlled solution dispensing device dispenses dry cleaning solvent into the tank, including:

[0025] Obtain the dry cleaning agent selection information submitted by the user, which includes the stain type, clothing material type, or dry cleaning agent type;

[0026] Determine the solvent container that holds the dry cleaning solvent corresponding to the selected dry cleaning agent;

[0027] The solution dispensing device controls the injection of dry cleaning solvent from the solvent box into the barrel through one or more dispensing ports.

[0028] In some embodiments of this application, the method further includes:

[0029] The solution dispensing device uses a vacuum pump or an ultrasonic atomizer to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the barrel.

[0030] In some embodiments of this application, the method further includes:

[0031] Once the duration of steam injection into the barrel reaches a second preset duration, the solution dispensing device is controlled to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the barrel.

[0032] In some embodiments of this application, controlling the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel to supply hot air into the barrel includes:

[0033] The amount of steam injected into the tank is calculated based on the cumulative operating time and steam generation rate of the steam device.

[0034] The drying time is calculated based on the steam volume and the preset evaporation rate corresponding to the heating device in the drying tunnel;

[0035] Control the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel to supply hot air into the barrel;

[0036] Once the duration of hot air supply reaches the specified drying time, the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel are shut off.

[0037] An embodiment of the second aspect of this application provides a control device for garment handling, comprising:

[0038] The receiving module is used to receive the start command of the dry cleaning program;

[0039] The speed control module is used to control the barrel to rotate at a preset speed;

[0040] A steam injection module is used to control the steam device to inject steam into the tank.

[0041] A dry cleaning solvent dispensing module is used to control the solution dispensing device to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the barrel;

[0042] A temperature control module is used to control the temperature in the barrel to be maintained within a preset temperature range;

[0043] The drying module is used to determine when the solution dispensing device or steam device has been turned on for a first preset time, and to control the solution dispensing device and steam device to be turned off; and to introduce hot air into the tank.

[0044] An embodiment of the third aspect of this application provides a garment processing device, including a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, wherein the processor executes the computer program to implement the method described in the first aspect above.

[0045] An embodiment of the fourth aspect of this application provides a computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, the program being executed by a processor to implement the method described in the first aspect above.

[0046] The technical solutions provided in this application embodiment have at least the following technical effects or advantages:

[0047] In this embodiment, a steaming device generates steam and injects it into the tub to increase humidity and wet the load. Dry cleaning solvent is then added to the tub via a dry cleaning agent dispensing device. Upon contact with the load, the steam and solvent penetrate the fibers, dissolving and emulsifying the stains. The tub rotates at a preset speed, scattering the load and increasing the contact area between the solvent and the load. The temperature within the tub is maintained within a preset range to enhance the cleaning effect. The dissolved stains dissolve in the solvent or steam, forming liquid crystals. Hot air is then introduced into the tub, causing the steam and solvent to evaporate, carrying away the dissolved stains from the load, achieving stain removal in a minimal water environment. This method allows for the use of home garment cleaning equipment to remove stains from fabrics of any material, achieving the desired cleaning effect in a short time. The garments can be worn immediately after washing without drying, eliminating the need for dry cleaning and reducing both the financial and time costs of garment cleaning.

[0048] Additional aspects and advantages of this application will be set forth in part in the description which follows, and in part will be obvious from the description, or may be learned by practice of this application. Attached Figure Description

[0049] Various other advantages and benefits will become apparent to those skilled in the art upon reading the following detailed description of preferred embodiments. The accompanying drawings are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the scope of this application. Furthermore, the same reference numerals denote the same parts throughout the drawings.

[0050] In the attached diagram:

[0051] Figure 1A flowchart of a control method for garment processing provided in an embodiment of this application is shown;

[0052] Figure 2 Another flowchart of a control method for garment processing provided in one embodiment of this application is shown;

[0053] Figure 3 This invention provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a control device for garment processing according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0054] Figure 4 This invention provides a schematic diagram of the structure of a garment processing device according to an embodiment of the present application.

[0055] Figure 5 A schematic diagram of a storage medium provided in one embodiment of this application is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0056] Exemplary embodiments of this application will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. While exemplary embodiments of this application are shown in the drawings, it should be understood that this application may be implemented in various forms and should not be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided to enable a more thorough understanding of this application and to fully convey the scope of this application to those skilled in the art.

[0057] It should be noted that, unless otherwise stated, the technical or scientific terms used in this application shall have the ordinary meaning as understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this application pertains.

[0058] The following description, in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, describes a garment processing device, its control method, apparatus, and storage medium according to embodiments of this application.

[0059] Fabrics that cannot be washed with water usually need to be sent to dry cleaners, which are expensive and time-consuming. Currently, traditional washing machines, washer-dryers, and dryers can only perform simple care on non-washable fabrics, such as wrinkle removal, odor removal, and sterilization, but cannot remove stains from these fabrics.

[0060] Based on this, this application provides a control method for garment processing. This method improves upon traditional garment processing equipment by enabling micro-water stain removal from fabrics using traditional garment processing equipment. This allows users to remove stains from fabrics of any material using their home garment processing equipment. It achieves the desired stain removal effect, completes washing in a short time, and allows the garments to be used immediately after washing without the need for drying. This eliminates the need to send the fabrics to a dry cleaner, reducing the monetary and time costs of garment stain removal.

[0061] See Figure 1The method specifically includes the following steps:

[0062] Step 101: Receive the start command for the dry cleaning program and control the drum to rotate at a preset speed.

[0063] The execution subject of this application embodiment is a garment processing device such as a washing machine, washer-dryer combo, or dryer. When a user needs to run a dry cleaning program on the garment processing device to remove stains from the fabric to be washed, the user first places the fabric to be washed into the drum of the garment processing device. In this application embodiment, the fabric placed in the drum is referred to as the load.

[0064] It should be noted that in some implementations, such as a dryer, there is only one drying drum, in which the drum refers to the clothes handling chamber; in other implementations, such as a washer-dryer combo, there is an inner drum and an outer drum, with the load placed in the inner drum and the water placed in the outer drum. In this implementation, the drum includes both the inner drum and the outer drum.

[0065] To improve the cleaning effect on the load, users can apply dry cleaning solvent to the stained areas of the fabric before placing it in the tub. For lightly soiled fabrics, pre-application of dry cleaning solvent is not necessary.

[0066] After placing the clothes to be washed into the drum, the user can submit a command to start the dry cleaning program via the control panel of the garment processing equipment. The equipment receives the command from the control panel. Alternatively, the user can use a client application installed on their mobile phone or computer to submit the command, which is then sent to the garment processing equipment. The equipment receives the command from the user's terminal.

[0067] After receiving the start command for the dry cleaning program, the garment handling equipment also controls the motor to drive the drum to rotate at a preset speed and preset cycle time. The preset speed is lower than the critical speed, where the critical speed is the minimum speed at which the garments inside the drum can adhere to the drum wall and rotate with the drum. The preset speed range includes 40rpm-70rpm, such as 40rpm, 50rpm, 55rpm, 58rpm, 60rpm, 70rpm, etc. The preset cycle time can be 25on / 3off, 25on / 5off, 26on / 4off, etc.

[0068] The barrel rotates at the preset speed and preset rhythm, which keeps the load in the barrel in a scattering state as the barrel rotates. The preset rhythm minimizes the time the barrel stops, thus keeping the load in a scattering state. After steam and dry cleaning solvent are injected into the barrel, the contact area between the load and the steam and dry cleaning solvent is increased, which helps to remove stains more effectively.

[0069] Step 102: Control the steam device to inject steam into the tank, and control the solution dispensing device to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the tank.

[0070] After receiving the start command for the dry cleaning program, the garment processing equipment activates the steam device, and the steam generated by the steam device is injected into the drum.

[0071] In one implementation, the steam device includes a steam generator, which can be installed inside the garment processing equipment. The steam generator is connected to a steam pipe, the outlet of which is located upstream or downstream of a fan. The fan is located at the front end of the drying tunnel, which is connected to the garment drum. The fan is turned on before, after, or simultaneously with the steam generator. The fan's rotation drives steam from the drying tunnel into the garment drum, causing the steam to circulate within the channel formed by the drum and the drying tunnel. If the steam pipe is located upstream of the fan, an intake fan can be used; if the steam pipe is located downstream of the fan, an exhaust fan can be used.

[0072] A steam generator is used to produce steam, which can generate steam continuously and stably. The time delay between the steam generator starting and the generation of steam is very short and can be ignored. By injecting steam into the tank, the humidity inside the tank is increased, thus achieving the effect of wetting the load.

[0073] In another implementation, the laundry handling equipment, such as washing machines and washer-dryer combos, includes an inner tub and an outer tub. The inner tub is located inside the outer tub, and a heating device is also installed inside the outer tub. This heating device is located at the bottom of the inner tub, that is, in the space between the inner and outer tubs. The steam device described in this application embodiment may further include the heating device located at the bottom of the inner tub. When the laundry handling equipment receives a command to start the dry cleaning program, it controls the water inlet valve to open and fill the tub with water. During the water filling process, the water level sensor monitors the current water level in real time. When the current water level reaches a preset water level, it controls the water inlet valve to close. This preset water level is higher than the height of the heating device at the bottom of the tub. After the water inlet valve is closed, the heating device at the bottom of the tub is turned on. The heating device evaporates the water at the preset water level by heating, thereby generating steam in the tub.

[0074] Before, after, or simultaneously with turning on the heating device at the bottom of the barrel, the fan in the drying tunnel can also be turned on. The fan blows steam, causing the steam to circulate in the channel formed by the barrel and the drying tunnel.

[0075] Steam is generated using a heating device at the bottom of the container. Although there is a slight delay in steam generation due to the initial water heating process, the power of this bottom-mounted heating device is significantly higher than that of the steam generator. For example, the steam generator may have a power rating of 500W-700W, while the bottom-mounted heating device can have a power rating of 800W-1200W. Therefore, generating steam through this bottom-mounted heating device is more efficient. Heating the water with this device produces a large amount of steam within the container, increasing the humidity and effectively wetting the load.

[0076] To better control the humidity inside the tank, embodiments of this application can also alternately control the steam generator and the heating device at the bottom of the tank to inject steam into the tank. The two methods can be used alternately once or multiple times.

[0077] In one implementation, the alternation occurs once. Specifically, a first steam device is controlled to inject steam into the tank. The first steam device is either a steam generator or a heating device at the bottom of the tank. Once the operating time of the first steam device reaches a third preset duration, the first steam device is turned off, and a second steam device is controlled to inject steam into the tank. The second steam device is either the steam generator or the heating device at the bottom, excluding the first steam device.

[0078] The third preset duration can be 3 minutes, 4 minutes, or 5 minutes, etc. This application embodiment does not limit the specific value of the third preset duration, and it can be limited according to the needs in actual application.

[0079] First, turn on the steam generator to inject steam into the tank. When the steam generator has been running for the third preset time, turn it off, open the water inlet valve to fill the tank with water to the preset level, then close the water inlet valve and turn on the heating device at the bottom of the tank. This heating device will evaporate the water and generate a large amount of steam in the tank.

[0080] Alternatively, you can first open the water inlet valve to fill the tank to the preset water level, then close the water inlet valve and turn on the heating device at the bottom of the tank. This heating device will evaporate the water by heating. After the heating device at the bottom of the tank has been on for the third preset time, turn it off. Then turn on the steam generator to inject steam into the tank.

[0081] In another implementation, steam is generated by alternating control of the steam generator and the heating device at the bottom of the tank. Specifically, a first steam device (either the steam generator or the heating device at the bottom of the tank) is controlled to inject steam into the tank. Once the operating time of the first steam device reaches a third preset duration, it is turned off, and a second steam device (any one other than the first steam device) is controlled to inject steam into the tank. Once the operating time of the second steam device reaches a fourth preset duration, it is turned off, and the process returns to the step of controlling the first steam device to inject steam into the tank, repeating cyclically.

[0082] The fourth preset duration can be 3 minutes, 4 minutes, or 5 minutes, etc. This application embodiment does not limit the specific value of the fourth preset duration, and it can be limited according to the needs in actual application.

[0083] For example, first, control the steam generator to operate for a third preset time, then turn it off. Open the water inlet valve to allow water to enter to the preset water level, then close the water inlet valve and turn on the heating device at the bottom of the tank to generate steam. After the heating device operates for a fourth preset time, turn it off. Then, control the steam generator to operate for the third preset time again, and then control the water inlet valve and the heating device at the bottom of the tank to generate steam. This cycle continues until the conditions for stopping steam generation are met, at which point the steam generator and the heating device at the bottom of the tank are turned off.

[0084] Alternating between a steam generator and a heating device at the bottom of the tub to produce steam allows for better control of the humidity inside the tub. It can generate steam immediately upon receiving the start command of the dry cleaning program and ensure high steam generation efficiency, so that the tub is filled with steam in a very short time. This allows the steam to wet the load and assist in removing stains from the load.

[0085] In other embodiments, this step can also simultaneously turn on the steam generator and the heating device at the bottom of the barrel to generate steam. Using both methods to generate steam at the same time can generate a large amount of steam in a very short time, quickly increase the humidity inside the barrel, shorten the time to wet the load, and improve the decontamination efficiency.

[0086] After receiving the start command for the dry cleaning program, the garment processing equipment also controls the solution dispensing device to add dry cleaning solvent into the drum. This embodiment requires removing stains from the load in an environment where only a small amount of water is provided by steam. Therefore, a compound dry cleaning solvent is selected. This solvent can emulsify and dissolve stains under certain temperature and humidity conditions. After the stains dissolve in the solvent, the solvent evaporates, carrying the dissolved stains away from the load, thus achieving the effect of removing stains from the load.

[0087] In one implementation, the garment handling equipment includes only one solvent tank and at least one dispensing port. The solvent tank holds the dry cleaning solvent, and the dispensing port connects the solvent tank to the drum body. The dry cleaning solvent in the solvent tank flows into the drum body through the dispensing port. Before starting the dry cleaning program, the user adds the dry cleaning solvent to the solvent tank. The user can determine the required dry cleaning solvent based on the type of stain on the garment or the fabric type, and add the required solvent to the solvent tank. After receiving the start command for the dry cleaning program, the garment handling equipment controls the solution dispensing device to release the dry cleaning solvent in the solvent tank into the drum body through one or more dispensing ports.

[0088] In another implementation, the garment processing device can automatically select different dry cleaning solvents for different stain types or different garment material types. Specifically, the garment processing device includes multiple solvent containers, each used to hold a dry cleaning solvent corresponding to a different stain type or different garment material type. When the user submits the command to start the dry cleaning program to the garment processing device in step 101, they can submit dry cleaning agent selection information, which includes the stain type, garment material type, or dry cleaning agent type. The garment processing control panel can be equipped with selection buttons corresponding to each stain type, each garment material type, or each dry cleaning agent type, or the garment processing device's display interface can be equipped with an interface for selecting the stain type, garment material type, or dry cleaning agent type. The user can submit dry cleaning agent selection information through the selection buttons on the control panel or the interface provided in the display interface. Alternatively, the user can select the stain type, garment material type, or dry cleaning agent type in the client software corresponding to the garment processing device installed on the user terminal, and the user terminal will send the user-selected stain type, garment material type, or dry cleaning agent type as dry cleaning agent selection information to the garment processing device.

[0089] The garment processing equipment pre-stores mapping relationships between different stain types, garment fabric types, or dry cleaning agent types and solvent cartridge labels. Upon receiving dry cleaning agent selection information submitted by the user, the equipment determines the corresponding solvent cartridge label based on the pre-stored mapping relationships. The solution dispensing device then injects the dry cleaning solvent contained in the solvent cartridge corresponding to that label into the tank through one or more dispensing ports.

[0090] Adding dry cleaning solvent to the drum allows it to mix with steam, aiding in the dissolution and emulsification of stains on the garment. The dissolved stains are then absorbed into the solvent. Using a dry cleaning solvent appropriate for the stain type or fabric material enhances stain removal. Multiple solvent cartridges store different types of dry cleaning solvents, automatically dispensing them based on user-submitted solvent selection information, increasing automation and improving user experience. Multiple dispensing nozzles ensure even solvent distribution, guaranteeing that all areas of the garment are coated for optimal stain removal.

[0091] In one implementation, the solution dispensing device includes a vacuum pump, and the garment processing equipment controls the vacuum pump to dispense dry cleaning solvent from the solvent box into the tank by pressure squeezing.

[0092] When dry cleaning solvent is dispensed using a vacuum pump, the particles are larger, allowing all the dry cleaning solvent in the solvent box to be quickly dispensed into the container, thus shortening the time required for dispensing the dry cleaning solvent.

[0093] In another implementation, the solution dispensing device includes an ultrasonic atomizer. The garment processing equipment controls the ultrasonic atomizer to atomize the dry cleaning solvent in the solvent box, and dispenses the resulting mist-like dry cleaning solvent into the tank through one or more dispensing ports.

[0094] When dry cleaning solvent is dispensed via ultrasonic atomization, the solvent is poured into the container in a mist-like form. The solvent particles are small and have a wide dispersion range, allowing for more even spraying of the solvent onto all parts of the load, which helps to improve the cleaning effect on all parts of the load.

[0095] In this embodiment, the dry cleaning solvent can be dispensed by controlling the solution dispensing device to dispense dry cleaning solvent simultaneously with the steam generating device, as described above. Alternatively, the solution dispensing device can be controlled to dispense dry cleaning solvent only after the duration of steam injection into the tank has reached a second preset duration.

[0096] The second preset duration can be 2 minutes, 3 minutes, 4 minutes, or 5 minutes, etc. This application embodiment does not limit the specific value of the second preset duration; it can be set according to requirements in practical applications.

[0097] Injecting steam into the drum for a second preset duration before turning on the solution dispensing device ensures that the load is fully wetted by steam before the dry cleaning solvent is added. This helps the dry cleaning solvent dissolve stains after contacting the clothes.

[0098] The mechanism of stain removal mainly includes processes such as penetration, dissolution, entrainment, liquid crystal formation, emulsification, and saponification. Under completely anhydrous conditions, it is difficult to completely dissolve and entrain stains from the surface of the substrate using only a small amount of atomized dry cleaning solvent. Therefore, this application embodiment considers using the combined action of steam and dry cleaning solvent for stain removal. Steam wets the substrate, helping to accelerate the penetration of the dry cleaning solvent into it. The dry cleaning solvent dissolves and emulsifies the stains. The stains dissolved and emulsified by the dry cleaning agent can dissolve in the dry cleaning solvent, forming liquid crystals, which are ultimately carried away by the hot air, achieving the effect of stain removal.

[0099] In other embodiments of this application, considering that the concentration of dry cleaning agent and the humidity of steam in the tub are both important parameters affecting the cleaning effect, the concentration of dry cleaning agent in the tub and the humidity of the environment in the tub are maintained above a preset concentration and a preset humidity by controlling the opening or closing of the steam device and the solution dispensing device. The preset concentration can be 0.1 g / L, 0.15 g / L, or 0.2 g / L, etc., and the preset humidity can be 50%, 55%, 60%, etc.

[0100] Specifically, based on the dispensing rate of the solution dispensing device and the capacity of the tank, the dispensing time required to reach a preset dry cleaning solvent concentration in the tank is calculated. The time required for the dry cleaning solvent concentration in the tank to decrease from the preset concentration to below that concentration is also determined through extensive testing. Furthermore, based on the steam generation rate of the steam generator and the capacity of the tank, the steam injection time required for the ambient humidity in the tank to reach a preset humidity is calculated. The time required for the ambient humidity in the tank to decrease from the preset humidity to below that humidity is also determined through extensive testing. These calculated dispensing times, consumption times, and corresponding steam injection and decrease times for the ambient humidity are then pre-configured in the garment processing equipment.

[0101] The addition time for the dry cleaning solvent can be 8 min, 10 min, or 12 min, and the consumption time can be 2 min, 3 min, or 4 min, etc. The steam injection time corresponding to the ambient humidity can be 8 min, 10 min, or 12 min, etc., and the decrease time of the ambient humidity can be 2 min, 3 min, or 4 min, etc.

[0102] When the garment processing equipment receives the command to start the dry cleaning program, this step controls the steam generator to produce steam and the solution dispensing device to add dry cleaning solvent into the drum. A timer starts when the steam generator is turned on. When the preset steam injection time is reached, the steam generator is turned off. The timer restarts when the steam generator is turned off. When the restarted time reaches the preset decrease time corresponding to the ambient humidity, the steam generator is turned on again to produce steam. This cycle of turning the steam generator on and off is repeated to maintain the ambient humidity inside the drum above the preset level.

[0103] Similarly, a timer starts when the solution dispensing device is turned on. When the timer reaches the preset dispensing time, the solution dispensing device is turned off. The timer restarts when the solution dispensing device is turned off. When the restarted time reaches the preset consumption time corresponding to the dry cleaning solvent, the solution dispensing device is turned on again. This cycle of turning the solution dispensing device on and off is repeated to maintain the dry cleaning solvent concentration in the tank above the preset concentration.

[0104] In other embodiments, the dispensing time for the dry cleaning solvent can be configured to be the same as the steam injection time corresponding to the ambient humidity, and the consumption time for the dry cleaning solvent can be configured to be the same as the decrease time corresponding to the ambient humidity. This allows for simultaneous control of the steam device and the solution dispensing device to be turned on or off simultaneously.

[0105] This embodiment of the application may also include a concentration sensor for detecting the dry cleaning agent concentration and a humidity sensor for detecting the ambient humidity within the tub. After the steam device and solution dispensing device are activated through this step, the concentration sensor continuously monitors the dry cleaning agent concentration within the tub, and the humidity sensor continuously monitors the ambient humidity within the tub. When the detected dry cleaning agent concentration is greater than or equal to a preset concentration, the solution dispensing device is shut off. When the detected dry cleaning agent concentration is less than the preset concentration, the solution dispensing device is activated again. When the detected ambient humidity is greater than or equal to a preset humidity, the steam device is shut off; when the detected ambient humidity is less than the preset humidity, the steam device is activated again. This cyclical control of the steam device and solution dispensing device maintains the dry cleaning agent concentration and ambient humidity within the tub at or above the preset levels.

[0106] By controlling the steam device and solution dispensing device to alternately turn on and off in the above manner, the concentration of dry cleaning agent in the tank is maintained above the preset concentration, and the ambient humidity is maintained above the preset humidity. This ensures that the load can be fully wetted and that there is a sufficient concentration of dry cleaning solvent to dissolve and emulsify the stains on the load, thereby maximizing the cleaning effect and further facilitating the dissolution and removal of stains.

[0107] In step 101, the fan is turned on and the barrel is rotated. In step 102, the steam device and the solution dispensing device are turned on. The control operations of these four components can be performed simultaneously or in any order.

[0108] Step 103: Control the temperature in the tank to maintain within the preset temperature range.

[0109] This application utilizes a dry cleaning solvent to dissolve emulsified stains. The dry cleaning solvent contains surfactants and enzymes, which are the main effective components for stain removal. Surfactants and enzymes exhibit higher activity at higher temperatures, thus resulting in a more effective stain removal.

[0110] Therefore, after receiving the start command of the dry cleaning program, the garment processing equipment also controls the temperature in the drum to be maintained within a preset temperature range, which may include 50℃-70℃.

[0111] Specifically, a temperature sensor detects the current temperature inside the drying drum. The temperature sensor can be installed on the inner wall of the drum or at the air outlet of the drying tunnel. The detected current temperature is compared with a preset temperature range. If the current temperature is lower than the lower limit of the preset temperature range, the heating device inside the drying tunnel is activated to heat the steam passing through the tunnel, thereby increasing the temperature inside the drum and enhancing the cleaning effect. Increasing the temperature also helps prevent excessive liquefaction of steam inside the drum due to low temperatures, thus avoiding excessive humidity inside the drum. If the current temperature is higher than the upper limit of the preset temperature range, the heating device inside the drying tunnel is deactivated to prevent the enzymes in the dry cleaning solvent from becoming inactive due to excessive heat.

[0112] This step, which controls the temperature inside the tub, can begin when the dry cleaning program is started, or it can begin simultaneously with or after the solution dispensing device is turned on.

[0113] Step 104: Determine that the operating time of the solution dispensing device or the steam device has reached the first preset time, and then control the solution dispensing device and the steam device to shut down.

[0114] The operating time of the solution dispensing device or steam device in step 102 is timed. When the operating time reaches the first preset time, it is considered that the stain has been fully dissolved, and at this time the solution dispensing device and steam device are turned off.

[0115] The first preset duration can be 7 minutes, 10 minutes, 13 minutes, or 15 minutes, etc. The embodiments of this application do not limit the specific value of the first preset duration. In practical applications, the first preset duration can be set according to the dispensing rate of the solution dispensing device and the decontamination effect that can be achieved with different durations.

[0116] Step 105: Introduce hot air into the barrel.

[0117] After shutting down the solution dispensing device and the steam device, control the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel to introduce hot air into the barrel.

[0118] In one implementation, step 103, which controls the temperature in the tank to remain within a preset temperature range, can be stopped when step 104 determines that the solution dispensing device and the steam device are shut down. In another implementation, step 103, which controls the temperature, can be performed while step 105 is being executed.

[0119] If the heating device in the drying tunnel is currently on, then keep the fan and the heating device running to supply hot air into the drum. If the heating device in the drying tunnel is not currently on, then after turning off the solution dispensing device and the steam device, turn on the heating device in the drying tunnel to supply hot air into the drum.

[0120] Hot air circulates within the channel formed by the drum and the drying tunnel, reducing the humidity inside the drum. This causes water vapor and dry cleaning solvent on the surface of the load to evaporate, carrying away the dissolved stains and thus removing them from the load.

[0121] This embodiment of the application determines the drying time for the final hot air drying based on the amount of steam injected into the drum during the current dry cleaning process. Specifically, the garment processing equipment calculates the amount of steam injected into the drum based on the cumulative operating time of the steam device and the steam generation rate. The drying time is then calculated based on the calculated steam amount and the preset evaporation rate of the heating device in the drying tunnel. Specifically, the ratio between the steam amount and the preset evaporation rate is calculated and determined as the drying time.

[0122] For example, assuming the steam generator's cumulative operating time is 10 minutes and the steam generation rate is 150 g / min, and the preset evaporation rate of the heating device in the drying tunnel is 100 g / min, then the total amount of steam injected into the drum is 1500 g, and the calculated drying time is 15 minutes.

[0123] Control the fan and heating device in the drying tunnel to supply hot air into the drum. Start recording the duration of hot air supply from the moment the steam device and dry cleaning agent dispensing device are turned off in step 104. When it is determined that the duration of hot air supply has reached the drying time calculated above, control the fan and heating device in the drying tunnel to turn off, control the drum to stop rotating, and the current dry cleaning program ends.

[0124] In other embodiments, considering that some dry cleaning solvent may remain on the load after hot air is introduced into the drum for the aforementioned drying time, the drum rotation can be restarted and the steam device can be turned on after the fan and heating device in the drying tunnel are turned off. Steam is then introduced into the drum to rinse the load and dissolve any remaining dry cleaning solvent. After the steam device is turned on again for a fifth preset time, it is turned off, and the fan and heating device in the drying tunnel are turned on again to introduce hot air into the drum. The hot air circulation allows the steam and dissolved residual dry cleaning solvent to evaporate. This achieves a secondary cleaning effect and significantly reduces the amount of residual dry cleaning solvent on the load, improving the washing effect.

[0125] The aforementioned fifth preset duration can be 5 minutes or 8 minutes, etc. This application embodiment does not limit the specific value of the fifth preset duration; it can be set according to requirements in practical applications.

[0126] To facilitate understanding of the dry-state decontamination process provided in the embodiments of this application, the following description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings. Figure 2 As shown, S1: Receive the start command for the dry cleaning program. S2: Control the motor to drive the tub to rotate at a preset speed and preset rhythm, and control the fan to start. S3: Control the steam device to inject steam into the tub. S4: Based on the dry cleaning agent selection information submitted by the user, control the solution dispensing device to dispense the dry cleaning solvent corresponding to the selected dry cleaning agent into the tub. S5: Control the temperature in the tub to maintain within a preset temperature range. S6: Determine that the operating time of the solution dispensing device has reached the first preset time, and control the solution dispensing device and steam device to shut down. S7: Calculate the drying time based on the total amount of steam injected into the tub and the preset evaporation rate of the heating device in the drying tunnel. S8: Keep the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel on for the drying time, and introduce hot air into the tub for drying. S9: Determine that the drying time has been reached, shut down the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel, and restart the steam device. S10: Determine that the operating time of the steam device has reached the fifth preset time, shut down the steam device, and turn on the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel to introduce hot air into the tub again.

[0127] The above Figure 2 The execution process shown is only an exemplary execution process of this application embodiment. In actual applications, there may be many other execution processes, which will not be described one by one here with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0128] In this embodiment, a steam generator injects steam into the tank to increase humidity and wet the load. Dry cleaning solvent is added to the tank via a solution dispensing device. Upon contact with the load, the steam and solvent penetrate the fibers, dissolving and emulsifying the stains. The tank rotates at a preset speed to keep the load in a scattering state, and operates at a preset rhythm to minimize downtime, ensuring sufficient contact between the load and steam / solvent, thus improving cleaning effectiveness. The temperature within the tank is maintained within a preset range to enhance the activity of surfactants and enzymes in the dry cleaning solvent, further improving cleaning. The dissolved and emulsified stains dissolve in the dry cleaning solvent or steam, forming liquid crystals. Hot air is then introduced into the tank, causing the steam and solvent to evaporate, carrying away the dissolved stains from the load, achieving stain removal in a micro-water environment. This method allows you to use your home laundry equipment to remove stains from fabrics of any material. It achieves the desired stain removal effect, completes the washing process in a short time, and the fabrics can be used immediately after washing without the need for drying. This eliminates the need to send the fabrics to a dry cleaner, reducing both the financial and time costs associated with fabric stain removal.

[0129] This application provides a control device for garment processing, which is used to execute the garment processing control method provided in any of the above embodiments. For example... Figure 3 As shown, the device includes:

[0130] The receiving module 201 is used to receive the start command of the dry cleaning program;

[0131] The speed control module 202 is used to control the barrel to rotate at a preset speed.

[0132] Steam injection module 203 is used to control the steam device to inject steam into the tank;

[0133] The dry cleaning agent dispensing module 204 is used to control the solution dispensing device to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the barrel.

[0134] Temperature control module 205 is used to control the temperature in the tank to maintain it within a preset temperature range;

[0135] The drying module 206 is used to determine when the solution dispensing device or steam device has been turned on for a first preset time, and to control the solution dispensing device and steam device to be turned off; and to introduce hot air into the tank.

[0136] The temperature control module 205 is used to detect the current temperature inside the drum through a temperature sensor; if the current temperature is lower than the lower limit of the preset temperature range, it controls the heating device in the drying tunnel to turn on and heat the steam passing through the drying tunnel; or, if the current temperature is higher than the upper limit of the preset temperature range, it controls the heating device in the drying tunnel to turn off.

[0137] Before operating the drying module 206, stop operating the temperature control module 205.

[0138] The preset rotation speed is lower than the critical rotation speed, where the critical rotation speed is the minimum speed at which clothes inside the tub can adhere to the tub wall and rotate with the tub. The preset rotation speed range is 40 rpm to 70 rpm, and the preset temperature range is 50℃ to 70℃.

[0139] The steam injection module 203 is used to control the steam generator to turn on, and blow the steam generated by the steam generator into the tank through a blower; and / or, control the water inlet valve to open, and inject water into the tank to a preset water level, which is higher than the heating device at the bottom of the tank; control the heating device at the bottom to turn on, and evaporate the water in the tank to generate steam.

[0140] The steam injection module 203 is used to control the alternating activation of the steam generator and the heating device at the bottom of the tank to inject steam into the tank.

[0141] The dry cleaning agent dispensing module 204 is used to obtain the dry cleaning agent selection information submitted by the user, which includes the stain type, clothing material type, or dry cleaning agent type; determine the solvent box that holds the dry cleaning solvent corresponding to the dry cleaning agent selection information; and control the solution dispensing device to inject the dry cleaning solvent in the solvent box into the barrel through one or more dispensing ports.

[0142] The dry cleaning solvent dispensing module 204 is used to control the solution dispensing device to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the barrel using a vacuum pump or an ultrasonic atomizer.

[0143] The dry cleaning agent dispensing module 204 is used to determine that the duration of steam injection into the barrel reaches a second preset duration, and to control the solution dispensing device to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the barrel.

[0144] The drying module 206 is used to calculate the amount of steam injected into the drum based on the cumulative operating time and steam generation rate of the steam device; calculate the drying time based on the amount of steam and the preset evaporation rate of the heating device in the drying tunnel; control the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel to introduce hot air into the drum; and control the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel to shut down when the duration of hot air introduction reaches the drying time.

[0145] The clothing processing control device provided in the above embodiments of this application and the clothing processing control method provided in the embodiments of this application are based on the same inventive concept and have the same beneficial effects as the methods adopted, run or implemented by the application stored therein.

[0146] This application also provides a garment processing apparatus to perform the above-described garment processing control method. This garment processing apparatus can be a washing machine, a washer-dryer combo, or a dryer, etc. Please refer to... Figure 4 This illustrates a schematic diagram of a garment processing device provided by some embodiments of this application. For example... Figure 4 As shown, the garment processing device 4 includes: a processor 400, a memory 401, a bus 402, and a communication interface 403. The processor 400, the communication interface 403, and the memory 401 are connected via the bus 402. The memory 401 stores a computer program that can run on the processor 400. When the processor 400 runs the computer program, it executes the garment processing control method provided in any of the foregoing embodiments of this application.

[0147] The memory 401 may include high-speed random access memory (RAM) or non-volatile memory, such as at least one disk storage device. Communication between this device network element and at least one other network element is achieved through at least one communication interface 403 (which can be wired or wireless), such as the Internet, wide area network, local area network, metropolitan area network, etc.

[0148] Bus 402 can be an ISA bus, PCI bus, or EISA bus, etc. The bus can be divided into an address bus, a data bus, a control bus, etc. The memory 401 is used to store programs. After receiving an execution instruction, the processor 400 executes the program. The clothing processing control method disclosed in any of the foregoing embodiments of this application can be applied to the processor 400, or implemented by the processor 400.

[0149] The processor 400 may be an integrated circuit chip with signal processing capabilities. In implementation, each step of the above method can be completed by the integrated logic circuitry in the hardware of the processor 400 or by instructions in software form. The processor 400 may be a general-purpose processor, including a central processing unit (CPU), a network processor (NP), etc.; it may also be a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), an off-the-shelf programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gate or transistor logic devices, or discrete hardware components. It can implement or execute the methods, steps, and logic block diagrams disclosed in the embodiments of this application. The general-purpose processor may be a microprocessor or any conventional processor. The steps of the methods disclosed in the embodiments of this application can be directly embodied in the execution of a hardware decoding processor, or executed by a combination of hardware and software modules in the decoding processor. The software modules may reside in random access memory, flash memory, read-only memory, programmable read-only memory, electrically erasable programmable memory, registers, or other mature storage media in the art. The storage medium is located in memory 401. The processor 400 reads the information in memory 401 and, in conjunction with its hardware, completes the steps of the above method.

[0150] The clothing processing equipment and the clothing processing control method provided in this application are based on the same inventive concept and have the same beneficial effects as the methods they employ, operate, or implement.

[0151] This application also provides a computer-readable storage medium corresponding to the clothing processing control method provided in the foregoing embodiments. Please refer to... Figure 5 The computer-readable storage medium shown is an optical disc 30, on which a computer program (i.e., a program product) is stored. When the computer program is run by a processor, it executes the control method for clothing processing provided in any of the foregoing embodiments.

[0152] It should be noted that examples of the computer-readable storage medium may also include, but are not limited to, phase-change memory (PRAM), static random access memory (SRAM), dynamic random access memory (DRAM), other types of random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or other optical and magnetic storage media, which will not be elaborated here.

[0153] The computer-readable storage medium provided in the above embodiments of this application and the control method for clothing processing provided in the embodiments of this application are based on the same inventive concept and have the same beneficial effects as the methods adopted, run or implemented by the application stored therein.

[0154] It should be noted that:

[0155] Numerous specific details are set forth in the specification provided herein. However, it will be understood that embodiments of this application may be practiced without these specific details. In some instances, well-known structures and techniques have not been shown in detail so as not to obscure the understanding of this specification.

[0156] Similarly, it should be understood that, for the sake of brevity and to aid in understanding one or more of the various inventive aspects, in the above description of exemplary embodiments of this application, various features of this application are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or description thereof. However, this disclosure should not be construed as reflecting a schematic diagram in which the claimed application requires more features than expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as reflected in the following claims, inventive aspects lie in fewer than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Therefore, the claims following the detailed description are hereby expressly incorporated into that detailed description, wherein each claim itself is a separate embodiment of this application.

[0157] Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that although some embodiments described herein include certain features but not others included in other embodiments, combinations of features from different embodiments are intended to be within the scope of this application and form different embodiments. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0158] The above description is merely a preferred embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A method for controlling garment processing, characterized in that, include: The dry cleaning program is started by receiving a command and controlling the tub to rotate at a preset speed. The preset speed is less than the critical speed, wherein the critical speed is the minimum speed at which the clothes inside the tub can adhere to the tub wall and rotate with the tub. The steam control device injects steam into the barrel, and the solution dispensing device dispenses dry cleaning solvent into the barrel; The temperature inside the barrel is controlled to remain within a preset temperature range; Once the operating time of the solution dispensing device or the steam device reaches a first preset time, the solution dispensing device and the steam device are controlled to shut down. Hot air is introduced into the barrel; The step of maintaining the temperature within the barrel within a preset temperature range includes: If the current temperature is determined to be lower than the lower limit of a preset temperature range, the heating device inside the drying tunnel is activated to heat the steam passing through the drying tunnel; or, If the current temperature is determined to be greater than the upper limit of the preset temperature range, the heating device in the drying tunnel is controlled to shut down.

2. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, Maintaining the temperature in the tank within a preset temperature range further includes: The current temperature inside the barrel is detected by a temperature sensor.

3. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, Before hot air is introduced into the barrel, the following steps are also included: Stop controlling the temperature in the tank to remain within the preset temperature range.

4. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The preset rotation speed range includes 40 rpm to 70 rpm, and the preset temperature range includes 50℃ to 70℃.

5. The method according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The steam control device injects steam into the tank, including: The steam generator is turned on, and the steam generated by the steam generator is blown into the barrel by the fan in the drying tunnel; and / or, The water inlet valve is opened to fill the tank with water to a preset water level, which is higher than the heating device at the bottom of the tank. The heating device at the bottom is then turned on to evaporate the water in the tank and generate steam.

6. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The steam control device injects steam into the tank, including: The steam generator and the heating device at the bottom of the barrel are turned on alternately to inject steam into the barrel.

7. The method according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controlled solution dispensing device dispenses dry cleaning solvent into the tank, including: Obtain the dry cleaning agent selection information submitted by the user, which includes the stain type, clothing material type, or dry cleaning agent type; Determine the solvent container that holds the dry cleaning solvent corresponding to the selected dry cleaning agent; The solution dispensing device controls the injection of dry cleaning solvent from the solvent box into the barrel through one or more dispensing ports.

8. The method according to claim 1 or 6, characterized in that, The method further includes: The solution dispensing device uses a vacuum pump or an ultrasonic atomizer to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the barrel.

9. The method according to claim 1 or 7, characterized in that, The method further includes: Once the duration of steam injection into the barrel reaches a second preset duration, the solution dispensing device is controlled to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the barrel.

10. The method according to any one of claims 1, 2, 6, and 7, characterized in that, The process of introducing hot air into the barrel includes: The amount of steam injected into the tank is calculated based on the cumulative operating time and steam generation rate of the steam device. The drying time is calculated based on the steam volume and the preset evaporation rate corresponding to the heating device in the drying tunnel; The fan and heating device in the drying tunnel are controlled to supply hot air into the barrel; Once the duration of hot air supply reaches the specified drying time, the fan and the heating device in the drying tunnel are shut off.

11. A control device for garment handling, characterized in that, include: The receiving module is used to receive the start command of the dry cleaning program; A speed control module is used to control the tub to rotate at a preset speed; the preset speed is less than a critical speed, wherein the critical speed is the minimum speed at which the clothes inside the tub can adhere to the tub wall and rotate with the tub; A steam injection module is used to control the steam device to inject steam into the tank. A dry cleaning solvent dispensing module is used to control the solution dispensing device to dispense dry cleaning solvent into the barrel; The temperature control module is used to control the temperature in the barrel to be maintained within a preset temperature range, including: determining that the current temperature is lower than the lower limit of the preset temperature range, controlling the heating device in the drying tunnel to turn on and heat the steam passing through the drying tunnel; or, determining that the current temperature is higher than the upper limit of the preset temperature range, controlling the heating device in the drying tunnel to turn off. The drying module is used to determine when the solution dispensing device or steam device has been turned on for a first preset time, and to control the solution dispensing device and steam device to be turned off; and to introduce hot air into the tank.

12. A garment processing device, comprising a memory, a processor, and a computer program stored in the memory and executable on the processor, characterized in that, The processor executes the computer program to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

13. A computer-readable storage medium having a computer program stored thereon, characterized in that, The program is executed by a processor to implement the method as described in any one of claims 1-10.

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